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If the outcome or refusal to take part in an enhanced DBS check causes concerns - regarding a councillor's access to information or contact with vulnerable adults/children - action could also be taken.

This includes chief officers being informed to allow "appropriate safeguarding arrangements [to] be put in place."

The report adds there are human rights implications in terms of DBS checks infringing on an individual's right to respect for private life.

It goes on to say this could deter members from standing for election or particular roles over fear of private information being revealed "rather than seeking to hide evidence of risk."

However, it concludes this could be outweighed by the public interest of "giving assurance to vulnerable people and to the public at large that elected members in a position of trust have undergone a level of vetting and scrutiny as to their suitability to discharge specific aspects of public service."

The cost of carrying out DBS checks is currently £25 per basic check and £44 for each enhanced check - with council budgets sidelined for the scheme.